An auto accident can leave you with medical bills and missed time from work, causing you to exceed your personal injury protection (PIP) limits. In this case, you may attempt to file a third-party claim (a claim through the at-fault driver’s insurance) to cover your injury expenses. However, you can certainly hit a snag if the at-fault driver has insufficient coverage.
The first step in filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance is to verify their coverage, since written confirmation will be required before you can proceed. There are various ways to do this, which can provide the financial relief you desperately need. If you have questions on how to verify an at-fault driver’s insurance coverage, our Chambersburg car accident attorneys are available to provide you with legal guidance.
What are the Minimum Auto Liability Limits in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania Code requires that drivers carry the following liability coverage:
- $15,000 for bodily injury coverage per person
- $30,000 for bodily injury coverage per accident
- $5,000 for property damage.
A driver carrying these minimum limits is likely underinsured, since these limits are often insufficient when a person suffers serious injuries. Our Chambersburg car accident team recommends that Pennsylvania drivers purchase higher coverage in the event of being at fault in a crash.
Steps to Determine if a Driver is Underinsured in PA
Request Proof of Insurance
At the accident scene, if you can do so, you should ask the at-fault driver to provide their insurance card. This will allow you to obtain the insurance company name, policy number, and policy effective dates. There should also be a claims number provided. Pennsylvania law requires drivers to keep proof of insurance in their vehicles at all times in the event of an accident. Taking a picture of the card is typically easier than jotting down the information.
Your Insurance Agent Can Run a Check
Although PIP coverage does allow you to recover lost earnings and medical expenses related to an accident, you may file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance if your lost earnings and medical expenses exceed your own policy limits. However, if the driver is underinsured, they will also be unable to cover your damages. In this case, you can file a UIM claim with your own insurance carrier.
Verifying the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage is important, which can be done by your insurance agent. Your agent can find out their policy limits and if there are any lapses in coverage.
Obtain the Police Report
Pennsylvania drivers may request a copy of the vehicle crash report for any accidents they are involved in. There is a $22 fee, with the report being available typically 15 days after the crash. The crash report will include the insurance information for all drivers involved, allowing you to see the at-fault driver’s insurance company and policy number as well. Although you will be unable to look up someone else’s insurance policy limits, by going ahead and filing a claim, the insurer may disclose these limits if your damages surpass them.
Contact Our Chambersburg Car Accident Lawyers
Car accident injuries can be debilitating, threatening your ability to make a living and provide for your family. At Shollenberger Januzzi & Wolfe, LLP, our Chambersburg car accident attorneys will advocate aggressively on your behalf to help you obtain maximum compensation. To discuss your matter, contact us online or by calling (717) 229-6580 to schedule your free consultation.